Big Country - The Seer (UMCLP020) LP

Formed by ex-Skids guitarist Stuart Adamson in 1981 with old friend Bruce Watson and, from 1982, rhythm section Tony Butler and Mark Brzezicki, Big Country proved a fascinating proposition, adding punk, new wave and even new romantic elements to heavy, meaning-laden pop/rock with a passionate Celtic slant and fierce integrity.

Using effects, Adamson and Watson's chiming guitars evoked traditional Scottish instruments. This was unique and proved highly influential. Within a year of their first release, many existing bands began to emulate the group's sound. Nobody achieved it quite like Big Country.

The Seer, released in 1986, contained the group's biggest UK hit single, Look Away, a glorious arms-in-the-air 80s rock anthem. As if to underline quite how highly regarded Big Country had become, Kate Bush – not one known to offer her services lightly – guests on the album's title track. The melody-rich album – which reached No. 2 in the UK charts and made the Billboard Top 60 – produced by Robin Millar, explores Scottish history, and demonstrates quite how Stuart Adamson had matured as a songwriter.

This re-issue faithfully replicates the original 1986 Mercury Records UK release and is pressed onto high quality 180g vinyl.

1. Look Away
2. The Seer
3. The Teacher
4. I Walk The Hill
5. Eiledon
6. One Great Thing
7. Hold The Heart
8. Remembrance Day
9. Red Fox
10. Sailor